Africa: Obasanjo, Falola Endorse Oyeyinka's New Book As Roadmap for Africa's Industrialisation
AllAfrica
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and renowned historian Toyin Falola have praised Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka's new book, *The Quest for Industrialisation: Pioneering Technology Innovation and Industrial Development in Africa*, calling it a crucial roadmap for Africa's industrial transformation. The book, which compiles decades of research and policy work by the development economist, offers a detailed analysis of Africa's industrial challenges and opportunities. Obasanjo highlighted its well-researched insights into Nigeria's developmental history, emphasizing the need to diversify away from oil and minerals to achieve sustainable growth. Falola described the book as a model for African nations, stressing its realistic approach to addressing leadership and institutional gaps in driving industrial progress.
Oyelaran-Oyeyinka's academic journey, from chemical engineering to development economics, reflects his deep commitment to understanding economic growth and inequality. His shift in focus came after realizing the broader societal forces shaping economic outcomes, leading him to specialize in technology transfer and structural transformation. The book underscores the importance of sustainable industrialization as a key driver of economic growth and improved living standards across Africa. It argues that the continent's underdeveloped technological capabilities and reliance on natural resource exports are major barriers to progress, particularly in the face of global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The scholar points out that Africa's dependence on crude oil and minerals is unsustainable, as it leaves the continent vulnerable to external shocks. He uses Nigeria's decline in global oil palm production as an example of missed industrial opportunities. Oyelaran-Oyeyinka advocates for a structural transformation from low-tech agriculture and commodity exports to high-value manufacturing, which he says requires strong leadership and institutional frameworks. His work also highlights the importance of investing in science and innovation to build resilience against future crises.
The book is particularly relevant today as Africa
Verticals
worldafrica
Originally published on AllAfrica on 2/26/2026